High-dose 8% capsaicin patch in treatment of Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). A Systematic review.

Abstract Introduction This is a review of the evidence from studies of the efficacy and tolerability of topically applied, high-concentration (8%) capsaicin in Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Methods: For this review, we searched EMBASE and MEDLINE to 14 April 2020. The terms used in the search included capsaicin patch, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, cancer pain or malignant pain. Results: A total of 69 studies were obtained but only 5 were selected for the final analysis. Capsaicin 8% patch provides significant pain relief in CIPN, and may lead to regeneration and restoration of sensory nerve fibers. However, the small number of studies (and patients) evaluated require caution with these results. Conclusion: Additional clinical trials are required to establish the definitive role of the capsaicin patch in the future.